In the winter of 2021, a dispute between two former friends in Cobb County, Georgia, ended in tragedy. Majik Joseph Broussard, an 18-year-old African American male from Marietta, was fatally shot on December 22nd. A recent graduate of Kell High School, Broussard was known for enjoying time with his family and friends. The incident that claimed his life took place on Busbee Parkway near Townpark Drive.
The man responsible for Broussard's death was 21-year-old Jamari Christmas.
The two had been friends but had a falling out a few weeks prior to the shooting. On that December day, the conflict escalated. Christmas told investigators he believed Broussard wanted to fight him again, and although he claimed he did not want to engage in a physical altercation, he produced a handgun and shot Broussard twice in the torso and leg.
After the shooting, Christmas remained at the scene and was detained by authorities. Broussard was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment but ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Christmas was subsequently charged with voluntary manslaughter and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
In the ensuing legal proceedings, Jamari Christmas pleaded guilty to the charges. During the court hearings, he expressed remorse and apologized to Broussard's family, who were present and provided victim impact statements. Following his guilty plea, Christmas was sentenced to 18 years in prison, which will be followed by seven years of probation.
